Chrysler is recalling 4,141 Fiat 500e models from the 2013 and 2014 model years because they could lose power. According to the automaker, the power inverter module could allow coolant to seep onto electrical components. This could cause a short circuit and power loss. The part in question is responsible for altering the electric current.

The company discovered the problem while reviewing warranty claims, and it found five cases where the fault actually occurred. It's not aware of any injuries or accidents tied to this issue. The recall affects cars built between September 24, 2012, and April 4, 2014, and all of them are in the US. Chrysler will contact owners directly to schedule the repair.

May 9, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is replacing the power inverter module (PIM) in an estimated 4,141 electric cars to prevent coolant seepage that may cause power loss while driving.

A PIM alters electric current to accommodate battery-powered propulsion. A routine warranty data review prompted an investigation, during which Chrysler Group engineers discovered a PIM defect that may, over time, seep coolant onto electrical components, causing a short-circuit leading to power loss.

Chrysler Group is aware of five such incidents. The Company is unaware of any related injuries or accidents.

Chrysler Group is replacing PIMs in model-year 2013-14 Fiat 500e vehicles assembled between Sept. 24, 2012 and April 4, 2014. Affected customers, all of whom are in the U.S., will be contacted directly and advised when they may schedule service. Associated costs will be borne by the Company.

Customers who are concerned may call the Fiat Customer Assistance Center at 1-888-242-6342.

Chrysler Group takes seriously its commitment to safety and is conducting this campaign voluntarily. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been advised.

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My car has been in the shop more than 4 times in the last 8 months and has had major electrical propulsion problems. I love my car when it works but now it has been in the shop once a month for the last few months and Chrysler still does not want to give me a car that works. The worst was when it left me staged in the middle of a major intersection without brakes or steering. The emergency brake also locked up so it took 4 large men to help me and my daughter. Does that sound like Chrysler cares about safety?

Bosch doesn't make this information exactly public, likely due to confidentially agreements. It's the owners forums and pro EV sites that have taken a good look at the components and the part numbers and published the information.

They were over $500 a month 2 weeks after they came out which was ridiculous. Thats why i got the Smart ED instead for $139, it was a no brainer and the car has been flawless 8400 miles 10 months... but i'd still like to get a 500e though

Because Fiat Chrysler is the new company, Fiat sold here in America is under Chrysler Group. If you had read the statement, it says they will call you and let you know where to get serviced. Idk if I'm right or not but dealerships have a say in what can be serviced, not the manufacturer.

I have a Fiat 500, and my point is that it SUCKS that they are supposed to be one company, but Chrysler won't touch a Fiat with a ten foot pole. The Fiat dealer you do have you have to make an appointment with typically a week in advance at minimum (check the forums, its not just Houston). Then when you go in, they have to take pictures and send it to Fiat for approval. They don't always get approval right away, and so may require you to come back later, meaning you have to make a whole other trip after the approval is received from Fiat HQ to the Fiat dealer to do the work. When you're 60 miles from the dealership, that's a huge PITA process.

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In my opinion the current crop of ICE vehicles are pretty damn reliable.
Electric vehicles certainly have the ability to be engineered for reliability.
But it would not surprise me if that takes a little while to sort out.
The Fiats will certainly be under warranty at this stage.

I doubt it would start a fire before shutting down but it would certainly be costly out of warranty.
In this Volkswagen factory they are testing for coolant leaks in the motor.
Sure they found it and fixed it but it does make me concerned about long term reliability.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=8TrEuXgRRPw#t=160